Each refugee case approved for admission to the United States is sponsored by one of ten voluntary agencies participating in the Reception & Placement (R&P) program under a cooperative agreement with the Department of State. The International Institute of Connecticut is one of those sponsoring agencies. As such, IIC provides initial services, which include housing, essential furnishings, food, clothing, community orientation and referral to other social and employment services, for the refugees’ first 30-90 days in the U.S.
Although refugees receive public assistance when they first arrive, the International Institute of Connecticut emphasizes early economic self-sufficiency to speed their integration into American society. During the refugees’ initial transition period, programs funded by the Department of Health and Human Services/Office of Refugee Resettlement and administered by the states provide cash and medical assistance, employment, training and other support services. After 12 months of residency, refugees are eligible to apply for their Green Card. After five years in the U.S., refugees may apply for citizenship
Matching Grant Program
Employment & Training Programs
Refugee Bulletin
